Councilwoman Xanthene Norris said Gibson was a pioneer and trailblazer.

The two grew up together and Norris said, "I will miss her. Lottie was a person that never gave up, who always found ways to get things done."

Xanthene Norris

Councilwoman Xanthene Norris with late councilwoman Lottie Gibson.

Gibson served on the council for 24 years. Colleagues said she had a passion for helping those who are less fortunate.

She grew up in Greenville and was active during the Civil Rights Movement fighting for social justice.

The Rev. Jesse Jackson told WYFF News 4's Corey Davis that he knew Gibson his entire life. The civil rights activist said she inspired him to go to college.

He added, "She was a NAACP freedom fighter along with her husband, and an outstanding community servant. She pulled down barriers during segregation and fought for social justice."

WYFF News 4

Lottie Gibson

After hearing of her death fellow council member Lynn Ballard told WYFF News 4, "It has been an honor to serve with Mrs. Gibson, who is an icon in the community she has been on council for more than 20 years and I enjoyed working with her."

Councilman Butch Kirven said, "County Council is certainly better off for having had Lottie for as long as we did and we're certainly going to miss her."

Gibson received more than 65 public awards and friends said she leaves behind a strong legacy.

Earlier in 2016 Gibson lost a bid for re-election in a runoff to former state Rep. Ennis Fant.

After the runoff election in June, Fant said, "I'm going to let her know I still love her and let her know she doesn't have to worry about her legacy because I'm going to fight tooth and nail to preserve it and to continue it."